More on this

Cary, N.C. — For years, Waverly Place, at the corner of Tryon and Kildaire Farm roads in Cary, has struggled with keeping businesses and attracting customers. Now, it's undergoing a major transformation.

"It kind of went downhill the last couple of years, but right now, it's looking really nice," resident Gary Casperson said Monday. "They're fixing it, and I hope it succeeds."

Waverly Place has been freshened up with earth tones, stone pillars and a playground.

The changes stem from the new owner, California-based RP Realty.

In 2008, a Durham developer planned to tear down the struggling shopping center and rebuild. The move prompted businesses to move out. Then, the economy went downhill.

Elegant Stitches, an embroidery and fabric store, was one of three businesses that stayed at Waverly Place.

"We have persevered, and business has grown," Elegant Stitches co-owner Shelley Holmes said. "We're thrilled about the renovations."

Rite-Aid and Whole Foods also stayed at the center.

Developers say the centerpiece of Waverly Place is the open-air promenade that could host live music and an outdoor dining area for new restaurants.

"They're looking for different types of businesses to be here, high-end businesses. Things that will really draw people," said Karen Thomas, owner of Hand and Stone – a spa that opened in in the shopping center two months ago.

Developers say five more businesses – Italian restaurant Amerigo, Pure Body Fitness, Gi Gi's cupcakes, Menchie's Frozen Yogurt and TRE Nail Spa – are expected to open at Waverly in the next few months.

"I hope it's going to be a real attraction for Cary," Holmes said.

Waverly Place his hosting a Winter Wonderland event that will include a tree lighting, photos with Santa and snow from 3 to 8 p.m. on Saturday.

Its the who whatDec 6, 2011

Seldom Blues was NICE!!

mmtlashDec 6, 2011

Unless they get several large anchor stores on board Waverly Place will just start emptying out again in a few years once the newness of the renovation wears off. One anchor tenant (Whole Foods) in a project the size of Waverly Place is just not going to work in the long run...

ShamrockDec 6, 2011

"Who would move in until they're done working on the place? Mud, garbage, workers all over the place "

I have been by there several times over the last few months and they are keeping a very clean work site. No mud, no garbage. The parking lots are clean and accessible. No reason to wait...I am sure many owners want to get in on the holiday shopping.

ShamrockDec 6, 2011

"I remember the place back when it was a pasture with horses."

Me too! It was owned by the Wolfe family that also owned the stables on Wrenn dr, across from the Cary post office. (before the PO was there)

michaelclayDec 6, 2011

It's been years but I do remember going to the night club called Seldom Blues at Waverly Place. That was an awsome place in my younger days.

DixiecratDec 6, 2011

I remember the place back when it was a pasture with horses.

slayerhilDec 5, 2011

Anyone remember Chi-Chi's there back in the day? ;)

2gurlz2boyzMomDec 5, 2011

Waverly Place his hosting a Winter Wonderland event - gotta love the editing!!!

it has gotten nicer in the last year. i work right by it and have watched the improvements

jrfergersonDec 5, 2011

Before these people take on things that cost more money - they had best see if people have money to spend at those places - with the unemployment rate as high as it is - it might be best to wait a year or two. just saying

Screw WrAlDec 5, 2011

oh yes, PF Changs would be the bomb there. No more pre-fab fast food. Enough of that garbage already.